What Rights Do Residents of Illinois Nursing Homes Have?

Lake County Attorneys Protecting Seniors in Nursing Homes

Nursing home residents in Illinois are guaranteed a number of personal rights by both state law and federal statutes. These rights are intended to ensure the health, safety, and overall well-being of the residents. Facilities that do not uphold or protect their residents’ rights can be held liable in both civil and criminal court.

The United States government and the state of Illinois have enacted several laws that address the rights of patients who require nursing home care, including the federal Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987, the Illinois Survival Act, and the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act. These laws were drafted in recognition that those who reside in nursing homes are often among the most vulnerable members of our society.

Guaranteed Rights

In Illinois, specific rights for nursing home patients are guaranteed by the Illinois Nursing Home Care Act (NHCA). Under the NHCA, nursing home residents have the right to:

• Lodge complaints about the care they are receiving;
• Their own clothes and personal effects, as well as storage space for personal property;
• Choose their health care providers;
• Be fully informed regarding medical treatment, including potential consequences;
• Refuse medical treatment;
• Access to their medical records for themselves or caregivers;
• Manage their own finances;
• Be free from physical or chemical restraints;
• Freedom of communication; and
• Practice the religion of their choice.

If any of these rights are violated, the resident has the right to file a claim under the NHCA.

Compassionate Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect Lawyers

To learn more about the protected rights of nursing home patients or for help with filing a lawsuit, contact the offices of Salvi & Maher, LLP today. Call 847-662-3303 for a free consultation at any of our four convenient locations. We understand the importance of protecting those in nursing homes, and we will work hard on behalf of your family. Serving clients throughout the Chicago area including Lake County, DuPage County, and Cook County.